Spotlight on tinnitus

Around two in three Aussies will experience tinnitus at some time in their lives.

While it’s often temporary, for about 10 to 20 per cent of people, it can severely impact their quality of life.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?

For many people, tinnitus sounds like a ringing noise, but it can also present as humming, whistling, chirping, clicking, roaring or hissing.

The noise can be faint or loud, and can occur in one or both ears. While these sounds seem very real to the person experiencing them, they cannot be heard by other people nearby.

WHAT CAUSES IT?

While tinnitus can occur at any age, it’s more common in older adults.

Around 90 per cent of those with tinnitus have some kind of noise-induced hearing loss from damage to their inner ear.

Other causes can include a build up of earwax, neck or jaw problems, injuries to the head and neck, ear infections, and some medications.

Tinnitus can also be a symptom of other health problems, including high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease, so it’s important to see your doctor to identify any underlying causes.

CAN IT BE TREATED?

Although there’s no cure for tinnitus, it can sometimes be treated by addressing the underlying cause.

With time, many people become used to tinnitus so it becomes bearable. Get to know any triggers that make it worse, limit your caffeine intake, and try to avoid stress.

And avoid total silence by playing music or the radio to create background noise.

Hearing aids may also help, while wearing ear plugs or headphones during noisy situations can prevent tinnitus from getting worse. For information and support, visit tinnitusaustralia.org.au

If ringing or other noises are troubling you, seek support